Nas To Kick-Off 20th Anniversary Essence Festival Thursday July 3rd

Nas is commemorating a huge milestone at this years Essence Festival.  The Hip Hop icon is not only celebrating the 20th anniversary of  his debut album Illmatic, the Queens MC will headline the Essence Now Playing concert in New Orleans, July 3.

It's going down in the N.O. as the 20th Anniversary Essence Festival jump-starts it's weekend with the Essence Now Playing concert.  Live from New Orleans, Thursday July 3rd Nas will be joined by Trey Songz, K. Michelle, and Jazmine Sullivan.

Tickets are on sale now and the show will take place at the New Orleans Merecede-Benz Superdome.

Essence President Michael Eubanks said in a statement, "ESSENCE is excited to welcome hip-hop legend and musical prodigy Nas to kick off our 20^th Anniversary celebration, especially as he commemorates his own impressive 20 year milestone."  By the way, the stop at Essence just adds another slot on Nas's 2014 tour toasting to the 20 year anniversary of Illmatic.

There will be 20 stages of performances this year, and Prince is headlining night one of the Essence Festival's main stage of shows on July 4th.  It's a party with a purpose and the party will continue with other artist like Mary J. Blige, Erykah Badu, and Lionel Richie are among the main stage names.  Plus, newcomers like Elle Varner, August Alsina, and Sevyn Streeter will perform in the Super lounges.

For more details and tickets click here.